The High Cost of Coasting
Oregon’s economic growth engine didn't just slow down—policymakers helped break it
The Oregon Ledger
Data-driven analysis of Portland and Oregon economics, public finance, and public policy—focused on incentives, institutions, and consequences.
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Aimed at the Right Target, But Out of Range
If Oregon adopted every Prosperity Council recommendation, would a growing employer finally choose the state?
Inheriting Growth, Drawing Down Prosperity
A new report tells the Prosperity Council that Oregon is thriving and that taxes don’t matter. One claim is outdated, and the other is wrong.
Portland’s Daffy Law to Save the Ducks
City council found five months to ban foie gras, but little time to address empty storefronts, the streets, or public safety.
Oregon’s Changing Economy: Three Months, Two Forecasts, One War
Lawmakers may be excited that Oregon state revenues are up. But, take out the legislature’s tax increases, and the economy went backward.
Why the Governor's race matters
Even with Democratic supermajority in the legislature, a Republican governor can make a difference
Portland Waits for Wilson’s Renaissance
The mayor's reforms might just work, but only if city council can curb its worst impulses
Where Are All the Normies?
How a century-old political playbook explains why the city’s decline may be a feature, not a bug
Portland’s Proposed Vacancy Fee Is a Solution Looking for the Wrong Problem
The city considers a bayonet-the-wounded approach to real estate
Proposed Streaming Tax Doubles Down on Portland’s Unpopular Arts Tax
Council president wrongly assumes taxing streaming will push people toward theater or concert tickets.